A PAT on the back is due to the team at Southport Arts Centre for giving junior theatregoers a fun-sized festival to call their own.

Play Up! Features four productions staged either at the Centre or in schools across Sefton between Friday, June 8, and Wednesday, June 13.

As well as a new twist on the Red Riding Hood story (Hood in the Wood) and children’s stand-up James Campbell, there is a production of the Greek myth Jason and the Argonauts from touring company Visible Fictions.

In this version (suitable for ages nine and above), Jason’s uncle has murdered his own brother, who just happens to be the King, and taken his place on the throne.

He rules with such ferocity that nobody has the courage to stand up to him.

That is, until the day Jason comes home and realises he has to wrest the crown from the vicious bully, no matter what it takes.

For further information about Play Up! shows, call Southport Arts Centre box office at the number given above.